Discover Card Rental Car Insurance: What You Need to Know

If you’re a frequent traveler, you know that rental car insurance can be a confusing and expensive issue. That’s where Discover Card comes in. Discover offers rental car insurance to its cardholders at no additional cost. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the details of Discover card rental car insurance and answer some common questions.

What is Discover Card Rental Car Insurance?

Discover Card Rental Car Insurance is a benefit provided by Discover to its cardholders. It covers the cardholder and any authorized drivers on the rental car for damage due to collision or theft. This coverage is provided at no additional charge as long as the rental is paid for with the Discover Card.

It’s important to note that this coverage is supplementary to any other insurance you may have. If you have personal car insurance or a policy through the rental car company, those policies will be primary. Discover’s coverage will only come into play if the other policies do not cover the full cost of the damage.

What does Discover’s Rental Car Insurance cover?

Discover’s Rental Car Insurance covers damage due to collision or theft. It includes the cost of repairs to the rental car or the actual cash value of the car if it’s deemed a total loss. It also covers any loss of use fees charged by the rental car company while the car is being repaired or replaced. The coverage also includes towing charges and any administrative fees charged by the rental car company.

It’s important to note that Discover’s Rental Car Insurance does not cover liability insurance. Liability insurance would cover damage to other vehicles or property, as well as any injuries sustained by other parties in an accident. The cardholder must either have personal liability insurance or purchase it through the rental car company.

Who is covered under Discover’s Rental Car Insurance?

Discover’s Rental Car Insurance covers the cardholder and any authorized drivers listed on the rental car agreement. This includes spouses, domestic partners, and immediate family members who are also authorized to use the Discover Card. However, it’s important to note that the primary renter must be a cardholder in order for the coverage to apply.

Are there any exclusions to Discover’s Rental Car Insurance?

Yes, there are some exclusions to Discover’s Rental Car Insurance coverage. The coverage will not apply if the damage is due to reckless driving or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It also does not cover damage caused by off-road driving or racing. Additionally, if the rental car is being used for commercial purposes, the coverage will not apply.

What do I need to do to use Discover’s Rental Car Insurance?

In order to use Discover’s Rental Car Insurance, you must decline the rental car company’s collision damage waiver. You must also pay for the rental car in full with your Discover Card. If you do not meet these requirements, the coverage will not apply.

If you do need to make a claim under Discover’s Rental Car Insurance, you must report the incident to Discover within 45 days. You will need to provide all necessary documentation, including the rental car agreement, a police report (if applicable), and any repair estimates or invoices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Discover’s Rental Car Insurance the same as the car rental company’s insurance?

No, Discover’s Rental Car Insurance is a separate benefit provided by the credit card company. It’s important to note that the coverage provided by the rental car company may have different terms and conditions than Discover’s coverage.

Do I need to notify Discover if I’m planning to rent a car?

No, you do not need to notify Discover in advance of your rental. However, you should familiarize yourself with the terms of the benefit before you rent the car.

Do I need to pay an additional fee for Discover’s Rental Car Insurance?

No, Discover’s Rental Car Insurance is provided at no additional cost as long as you pay for the rental car with your Discover Card.

What if I don’t have a Discover Card?

If you do not have a Discover Card, you will not be eligible for the Rental Car Insurance benefit. However, many other credit cards offer similar benefits, so be sure to check with your card issuer to see what’s available to you.

Is Discover’s Rental Car Insurance available internationally?

Yes, Discover’s Rental Car Insurance is available for rentals worldwide. However, it’s important to note that the coverage may be subject to certain exclusions or limitations in some countries. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before you rent a car.

Conclusion

Discover Card Rental Car Insurance is a valuable benefit for frequent travelers. By providing coverage for collision and theft, it can help save you money and give you peace of mind. However, it’s important to understand the terms and conditions of the benefit before you rent a car. Be sure to compare the coverage provided by Discover to any other insurance you may have in order to ensure that you’re fully protected.